Celebrity is investing $250 million in some of its oldest ships to make them better than ever.
The Solstice Class initially debuted in 2008, when Celebrity Solstice hit the high seas for the first time. Over the next four years, Celebrity added four more ships to the new beloved class, including Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Silhouette, and Celebrity Reflection.
Now, more than a decade later, Celebrity Cruises plans to modernize the ships, elevating the guest experience while continuing to pay tribute to classic cruising — a stark difference compared to their ultra-modern Edge Series.
"Our Solstice Series ships represent the best of classic cruising, and now we’re elevating this vacation experience even further by adding brand new experiences and enhancements at every turn," said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises.
"Guests will enjoy more ways to explore and restore, all while staying true to what made our guests fall in love with these ships in the first place."
Celebrity Solstice will be the first of the Solstice Series ships to undergo a revitalization
As the first Solstice Class ship, it makes sense that she will lead the way in this exciting transformation of the older vessels.
Guests can sail onboard the reimaged ship starting in March 2026, when she will have received bow-to-stern enhancements to classic venues, including Café Al Bacio, Cellar Masters, the World Class and Martini Bars, Camp at Sea, and more.
Not only will there be new experiences to enjoy, but all 1,479 cabins will receive an upgrade. The AquaClass staterooms, in particular, will be refreshed to create a fully immersive wellness vacation with spa-inspired elements, such as massaging shower heads, aroma therapy diffusers, and more. Plus, AquaClass guests will have access to the brand-new Relaxation Lounge at The Spa.
Read more: A look inside a balcony and interior cabin aboard Celebrity Solstice
Speaking of accommodations, Celebrity is adding four new stateroom categories to Celebrity Solstice. They will be available to book starting mid-June:
- The Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suite
- Deluxe Panoramic Oceanview Suite
- Panoramic Ocean View Suite
- Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View
The Retreat, Celebrity's ultra-luxurious ship-within-ship concept, will also be expanded and enhanced across the revitalized ship, starting with redesigned suites.
Guests staying in The Retreat will enjoy exclusive access to the all-new Retreat Sundeck, outfitted with ample outdoor seating, an oversized hot tub, and prime panoramic views. In addition, the Retreat Lounge will undergo a redesign.
New culinary options
The food is one of the best parts of any cruise vacation, and Celebrity consistently delivers a world-class culinary experience. However, they're upping their game with new additions to Celebrity Solstice.
Fine Cut Steakhouse, a Forbes Travel Guide-rated specialty restaurant found on Edge Series ships, will make its Solstice Class debut — bringing a modern take on the classic steakhouse experience. Here, you'll choose from 30-day dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and more.
Trattoria Rossa is a Celebrity-first. Don't expect your average run-of-the-mill Italian restaurant. Instead, think of fresh homemade pasta that's almost too good to share. A highlight will be the authentic tableside preparation of dishes inspired by Italian classics.
Read more: What the Food Was Like on Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Reflection
Spots to take in the views like never before
The top deck of Celebrity Solstice will be transformed into Sunset Park. The half-acre outdoor oasis will feature elevated cuisine, refreshing cocktails, open-air concerts, lawn games, and more.
To get the ultimate experience, consider splurging on a private cabana. While you admire the vast horizon, a dedicated personal attendant will be on hand to cater to your every need.
Finally, the Sunset Bar, a fan favorite across Celebrity's fleet, will be expanded.
Exclusive venues
Although Celebrity Solstice isn't the newest ship in the fleet, the line is adding exclusive venues designed to blend the timeless charm of the Solstice Series with modern luxury.
The Boulevard Lounge, for instance, is a brand-new cabaret-inspired entertainment venue where guests can find seemingly constant programming, from interactive daytime activities to new game shows, candlelit concerts, and dueling pianos.
Steps away from the lounge is Boulevard Bar, an elegant new space where guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails before or after the show.
Those who want a little more stimulation will enjoy the Celebrity Barcade. Be warned, though: it's not your average sports bar. Although there will be screens to cheer on your favorite teams, you can also challenge friends to a round of darts, billiards, or retro board games.
Aside from Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity hasn't revealed the timeline for updates to the other vessels. Details on those revitalizations, including which current spaces will be transformed, are forthcoming.
Read more: Celebrity Edge vs Equinox: Is newer always better?
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she traveled frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas during her freshman year of high school. Having sailed on over 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Margaritaville at Sea, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
